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Carcinogens definitions

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  • Carcinogen
    Substance or molecule capable of inducing DNA damage, increasing the risk of cancer development in cells.
  • Initiator
    Agent that directly interacts with DNA, causing mutations that can start the process of cancer formation.
  • Promoter
    Factor that encourages cancerous transformation in cells already containing DNA mutations, without causing mutations itself.
  • DNA Damage
    Alteration to genetic material, such as breaks or modifications, that can disrupt normal cell function and lead to cancer.
  • Mutation
    Permanent change in the DNA sequence, potentially leading to abnormal cell behavior and cancer.
  • DNA Repair System
    Cellular mechanisms responsible for correcting DNA errors; deficiencies here can increase cancer risk.
  • Telomere Shortening
    Progressive loss of protective chromosome ends, which can contribute to genomic instability and cancer.
  • Viral Genome Integration
    Process where viral DNA becomes part of the host cell's genome, potentially disrupting normal gene regulation.
  • Tumor Promoter
    Non-mutagenic substance that enhances the proliferation of cells with pre-existing mutations.
  • Tobacco
    Widely recognized carcinogen that can directly damage cellular DNA, significantly increasing cancer risk.
  • Human Papillomavirus
    Virus capable of integrating its genetic material into host cells, contributing to cancer development.
  • Hepatitis B
    Virus associated with increased cancer risk due to its potential to alter host cell DNA.
  • Hepatitis C
    Virus linked to cancer through mechanisms involving chronic infection and genetic disruption.
  • Lifestyle Choices
    Behaviors such as diet and exercise that can influence an individual's overall cancer risk.